How to Make BJJ Embroidered Patches for Kimono

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is more than a martial art — it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a badge of honor. One of the most iconic ways BJJ practitioners show their identity and team spirit is through embroidered patches on their kimonos (gis). Whether for team branding, gym promotion, or personal style, custom patches add meaning and personality to the uniform.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to creating professional Bjj embroidered patches for your kimono.

1. Plan Your Patch Design

Every great patch starts with a solid idea. Think about what the patch represents — your team, dojo, logo, belt rank, or a personal message. Keep these tips in mind:

• Choose a clear concept: Team logo, motivational quote, or symbolic icon.
• Use simple shapes: Circular, rectangular, or shield shapes look clean on a kimono.
• Limit colors: 4–6 colors make embroidery sharper and more durable.
• Readable text: Use bold, simple fonts so letters are visible even from a distance.

Tip: Look at existing BJJ patches for inspiration but create something unique for your brand or team.

2. Create a Digital Artwork File

Once the concept is ready, it’s time to turn it into a digital design.

• Use software like Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Canva to create your artwork.
• Save the design in a vector format (AI, EPS, or PDF) for the best embroidery results.
• Include a color guide (Pantone codes) to ensure thread colors match your vision.

Pro Tip: Avoid overly complex details — embroidery machines can’t reproduce tiny gradients or super-fine lines.

3. Choose the Patch Size and Shape

Decide how large the patch should be and where it will be placed on the kimono. Common placements include:

• Chest – Small team logo (2"–4")
• Back – Large statement patch (8"–12")
• Sleeves or pants – Narrow, rectangular patches with text or flags

Remember: IBJJF and most competitions have patch placement rules, so check them before finalizing your design.

4. Select Quality Materials

Choosing the right materials is key to durability — especially since BJJ kimonos endure heavy wear and frequent washing.

• Base fabric: Twill or canvas for strength and flexibility.
• Thread: Polyester or rayon threads are strong, vibrant, and colorfast.
• Backing: Iron-on, sew-on, or Velcro backing based on your needs.

Sew-on backing is most common for BJJ kimonos since it’s the most secure during training and competition.

5. Get the Design Digitized for Embroidery

Before production, your artwork must be digitized — a process that converts it into a machine-readable embroidery file (DST, PES, etc.).

• Hire a professional digitizer or ask your patch manufacturer to do it.
• Ensure proper stitch density and direction for strong, clean embroidery.
• Check a sample preview to confirm details before bulk production.

Tip: Good digitizing makes a big difference in final quality — don’t skip this step.

6. Manufacture Your Patches

Now you’re ready for production. You can either:

• Use a professional Patches manufacturer – Best for bulk orders with consistent quality. DIY with an embroidery machine – Good for small batches or personal use.

If you’re ordering professionally, request a sample patch first. Review stitching quality, color accuracy, size, and backing before approving the full order.

7. Attach the Patches to Your Kimono

Once your embroidered patches are ready, it’s time to attach them:

• Sew-on patches: Recommended for BJJ — they stay secure during rolls and washes.
• Iron-on patches: Quick and easy but may peel off with heavy use.
• Velcro patches: Great for interchangeable designs (less common in BJJ).

Make sure the fabric is flat and tension-free before stitching for a clean finish.

Final Tips for BJJ Patch Success

• Wash-resistant: Ensure the patches are pre-shrunk and colorfast.
• Lightweight: Too-heavy patches can make the gi stiff and uncomfortable.
• Follow competition rules: Some tournaments have strict size and placement guidelines.

Conclusion

Making BJJ embroidered patches for your kimono is a creative way to represent your team, show pride, and personalize your gear. With a clear design, quality materials, and proper embroidery, you can create durable, professional patches that look amazing on and off the mats.

Whether you’re a gym owner branding your team or a martial artist expressing your journey, a well-made patch is more than decoration — it’s a badge of honor.